RESEARCH PAPER
Prevalence of cardiovascular disease risk factors among military senior officers – an epidemiological analysis and preventive implications
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Military Institute of Medicine – National Research Institute, Department of Cardiology and Internal Medicine, Poland
Submission date: 2025-02-17
Final revision date: 2025-03-04
Acceptance date: 2025-03-17
Publication date: 2025-09-26
Corresponding author
Bartłomiej Marek Gawron
Wojskowy Instytut Medyczny – Państwowy Instytut Badawczy, Klinika Kardiologii i Chorób Wewnętrznych, ul. Szaserów 128, 04-141, Warszawa, Polska
LW 2025;103(3):228-233
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ABSTRACT
Introduction and objective: Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death worldwide, including in Poland, where they account for 35% of total mortality. A high prevalence of risk factors such as hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, obesity, and chronic stress is particularly evident among military personnel. Due to the nature of their work, senior military officers may be especially vulnerable to these health threats. The aim of the study was to assess cardiovascular risk factors among senior military officers and identify potential preventive measures to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. Material and methods: A retrospective analysis of medical records of military personnel, including laboratory findings, blood pressure measurements, BMI, and a health questionnaire. The study group consisted of 34 officers (100% male) aged 40–58 years (mean 51 ± 4.2 years). Results: Hypertension was diagnosed in 54% of participants, with 23% having stage II or III hypertension. Overweight or obesity (BMI ≥25 kg/m²) was present in 83% of participants. Hypercholesterolemia (LDL >115 mg/dL) was found in 65%, while elevated non-HDL cholesterol levels (>130 mg/dL) in 68% of participants. A high or very high 10-year cardiovascular event risk (based on SCORE2) was observed in 62% of officers. Conclusions: Senior military officers exhibit a high prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors, including hypertension, obesity, and lipid disorders. The findings highlight the need to implement preventive programs, including health education, stress reduction strategies, and lifestyle modification support, which may contribute to improved health and operational readiness of the armed forces.